A Day to Honor and Remember

Friday, September 09, 2011

Posted by Andrew Alfano – New York Metro regional vice president

Like many people, I’m deeply moved by the upcoming 10-year anniversary of the September 11 attacks. I was in Manhattan on that morning, and I remember very well what I experienced: the fear, the anxiety, the uncertainty of not knowing what would happen next.

But I also recall the gratitude we felt for the first responders on the scene, the relief we held when loved ones were located, and – most of all – the comfort and sympathy we found in the company of others.

I also vividly remember the days following this tragic event. So many came back to our stores to share their stories with friends and colleagues. Some came just to get back a semblance of their normal routines, and some merely wanted the opportunity to be with others.

As we all reflect on this day and recall our own stories, I know that many will once again want to share this time with others – just as they did during the days following September 11. With that, we want to invite you to come to our stores as a place to gather with your friends, family and community. Know that, just as we have in years past, we will honor a moment of silence. This Sunday, from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m., our stores in the New York Metro, Washington D.C., Boston, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh areas will also offer a complimentary cup of brewed coffee to everyone who comes in.

In addition, I’m proud to share the news that the Starbucks Foundation is donating $100,000 to the 9/11 Memorial Foundation as a way to honor and remember those who passed.

If you have thoughts about this day, I hope you’ll share them in the comments below.